BRADENTON, Fla. -- Pirates ace right-hander Gerrit Cole, who hasn't pitched in a Grapefruit League game because of right rib inflammation, took another step Monday toward returning to action.
Before the Pirates played the Phillies at McKechnie Field, Cole threw two innings of live batting practice on a back field, one with a protective screen in front of him and one without. He reported no problems. He'll throw a bullpen session Wednesday, then a decision will be made whether he's ready to appear in a Grapefruit game.
If there are no setbacks, he remains the logical choice to be the Opening Day starter after going 19-8 with a 2.